Some proposed relations among the domains of behavior analysis

Abstract

The present article examines the nature of and relations among the domains of behavior analysis. It first proposes a set of annotated, descriptive criteria to aid in distinguishing the experimental analysis of behavior, applied behavior analysis, and service delivery. It then argues that the experimental analysis of behavior lies at one end of a continuum of behavior-analytic activity, with applied behavior analysis in the middle, service delivery at the other end, and the theoretical-philosophical-conceptual position known as "radical behaviorism" informing the three domains on the continuum. Finally, it argues that clarifying the distinctions among the domains of behavior analysis will help the behavior-analytic community to focus its efforts in training programs and overall support of behavior analysis.

The Impact of Applied Behavior Analysis on the Science of Behavior

“…Put differently, a systemic perspective reduces the probability that any one aspect of the system will overshadow others or dominate the system. If behavior analysis values being a naturalistic approach to behavior, and also one which places value on philosophy, basic science, application, and practice (e.g., Moore & Cooper, 2003), then Kantor's perspective seems to be one which would be useful for behavior analysts to consider.…”

“…Another unique aspect of behavior analysis is the relationship between the philosophical, basic, applied, and service delivery domains of the enterprise (Moore & Cooper, 2003). That is, behavior analysis is coordinated as a scientific discipline, where all of the above domains are interrelated and influence one another.…”

Relações comportamentais como objeto da Psicologia: algumas implicações

“…Donahoe, 2004;Hawkins & Anderson, 2002;Moore & Cooper, 2003;Rutherford, 2004;Tourinho, 1999Tourinho, , 2003. Essa característica vem sendo enfatizada por diversos autores, com o objetivo de colocar em discussão, entre outros, as direções para o desenvolvimento da disciplina, as estratégias de formação necessárias e a diversidade metodológica requerida.…”

B. F. Skinner’s contributions to applied behavior analysis

“…If the distinction is not respected, then their unique contributions to improving the human condition may be misunderstood in the behavioral, social, and cognitive sciences, and by funding agencies, to the detriment of the discipline and the culture at large (J. M. Johnston, 1996; J. Moore & Cooper, 2003;Vollmer, 2001).…”

“…Although applied behavior analysis and behavior modification should not be conflated (see J. M. Johnston, 1996;J. Moore & Cooper, 2003;Vollmer, 2001), we doubt that the authors of these comments meant to distinguish between them in this context.…”